Illinois Information Systems Schools

Computer Information Systems Industry Outlook in Illinois:

There are well over 12 thousand Information Systems professionals working for a wide range of companies, research and education facilities and government agencies throughout the state of Illinois. Moreover, this number is expected to rise by 18 percent over the coming 6 years, as more and more of these companies, facilities and agencies rely on technology for a greater percentage of their tasks. Technology sectors are forecasted to rise faster than all other industries with the exception of healthcare, meaning that Information Systems specialists will continue to increase in demand.

Forbes ASAP magazine recently reported that Chicago was the country's fourth largest technology center, behind areas in California and Texas and just ahead of Boston. The state of Illinois also has the sixth largest high-tech economy in the country, with one of the largest number of high-tech jobs in the United States.

According to a study by the University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois Information Systems professionals in Illinois are found primarily in the following areas:

Telecommunications

Manufacturing

Defense

Education

Finance

Agriculture

Healthcare

Transportation

Entertainment

Those interested in a career in one of the vast number of Information Systems fields, in Illinois and around the country, are encouraged to look through a list of degree programs, both online and campus-based. Finding a program that meets your schedule, budget, education and career goals is the most important first step.

Computer Information Systems salaries in Illinois are on par with those of the US as industry as a whole. Often times, starting salaries for recent four-year degree graduates can be above $80,000 per year, and even higher for those with a higher degree, work experience or both. Currently just under 75 percent of Illinois’ Information Systems specialists have a four-year degree or higher.

With Illinois’ fast growing technology sector, both public agencies and private corporations will be competing for the best talent in the Information Systems pool. This means that those with a four-year degree or higher will be well compensated in comparison to neighboring states, considering salaries as well as benefit packages, including retirement and health care.

A table of Illinois average salaries for the Information Systems sector is available below: